Croydon Council Expands Free Senior Fitness Programmes Across the Borough

From tai chi in Wandle Park to brisk walks on the Whitgift Centre rooftop, Croydon Council is rolling out a fresh slate of free community fitness programmes aimed at residents over 60. The move expands existing provision across the borough, adding more locations and new activities through the summer.

This comes as local authorities face rising rates of inactivity among older adults. According to Active Lives data published by Sport England, over 45% of people aged 65 and older in London do not meet recommended levels of physical activity, and sedentary lifestyles are linked to additional health costs. With Croydon’s over-60s population topping 50,000, the need for accessible, low-cost exercise options is more pressing than ever.

From Parks to Community Centres

The council’s latest schedule includes Monday morning tai chi and chair yoga led under the trees in Wandle Park, and new Move More group classes at Ashburton Hall on Lower Addiscombe Road. Fairfield Halls continues to host its popular Silver Swans ballet for beginners, while the Bensham Manor Wellbeing Hub now offers weekly seated dance sessions for those less mobile. The programme is supported by local partners such as the Croydon Voluntary Action network and Age UK Croydon, with activities spread throughout local landmarks, public parks and community halls.

The initiative is entirely cost-free to participants, with all sessions underwritten by Croydon Council’s Health and Wellbeing Board. No advance registration is needed for most sessions; residents just turn up with comfortable shoes and a bottle of water. Printed timetables have been distributed at libraries and GP surgeries across the borough, with digital listings on the council’s Be Active Croydon site. According to the council’s 2025 budget statement, an additional £32,000 was allocated this spring to expand outreach through partner organisations and cover instructor costs.

Proven Benefits and How to Join In

Data from Croydon Public Health shows that participation in council-run fitness sessions increased by 17% over the past year, backed up by quarterly user surveys compiled by local charity Reaching Higher. Popularity peaks in the summer, with over 1,800 attendances logged during July and August last year. While regulars praise the benefits to mood and mobility, NHS guidelines point out that group exercise can help reduce falls by more than 23% among those aged 65+.

To find a class, residents can check current listings in-person at Croydon Central Library or online via the council’s events portal. Instructors stand ready on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings this summer at leading venues like Norwood Junction Community Hub and Park Hill Park bandstand. Those interested in specific support for mobility or long-term conditions are encouraged to consult their GP, though no medical referral is required for general drop-in activities. As Croydon’s programme grows, organisers hope to see the borough’s parks, halls, and squares humming with movement-and plenty of new faces-through the summer and beyond.